PHALANGES OF THE FOOT ANATOMY
Phalanges of the Foot - Overview, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.
GENERAL STRUCTURE
The phalanges of the foot correspond in number and arrangement to those of the hand. The big toe consists of two phalanges—proximal and distal—while the other toes each have three phalanges: proximal, middle, and distal. These bones enable your toe movement and contribute to your balance and mobility.
General Characteristics
How many phalanges are in each foot?
- 14 phalanges in each foot
- Big toe (hallux) has 2 phalanges
- Toes 2-5 each have 3 phalanges
- Similar structure to phalanges of the hand but shorter and broader
- Essential for push-off when you walk and balance
STRUCTURE OF EACH PHALANX
Phalanx - Individual Structure, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.
Each phalanx shares a common structural pattern consisting of a base, body, and head, similar to the metatarsal bones but on a smaller scale.
Base
What is the base of the phalanx?
- Concave structure
- Articulates with the head of the corresponding metatarsal bone
- For middle and distal phalanges, articulates with the head of the preceding phalanx
Body
What is the body of the phalanx?
- Compressed from side to side
- Convex on the dorsal surface
- Concave on the plantar surface
- Tapers from base to head
Head
What is the head of the phalanx?
- Located at the distal end
- Presents a trochlear surface for articulation with the adjacent phalanx
- Pulley-shaped to allow flexion and extension movements
TROCHLEA
The trochlea is a critical articular feature of each phalanx that enables smooth joint movement.
Characteristics
What is the trochlea of the phalanx?
- Part of the head of each phalanx
- Provides a smooth articular surface for movement between adjacent phalanges
- Pulley-shaped (grooved) configuration
- Allows hinge-type movements:
- Flexion (curling your toes)
- Extension (straightening your toes)
PROXIMAL PHALANGES
The proximal phalanges form the first row of toe bones and are the largest of the three types.
Characteristics
What are the proximal phalanges?
- First row of phalanges
- Articulate with the metatarsal bones at their bases
- Longest of the three phalangeal types
- Five proximal phalanges in each foot
- Proximal phalanx of big toe is notably larger and thicker
MIDDLE PHALANGES
The middle phalanges are the second row of toe bones and are absent in the big toe.
Characteristics
What are the middle phalanges?
- Second row of phalanges
- Present in all toes except the big toe
- Four middle phalanges in each foot
- Shorter than proximal phalanges
- Articulate proximally with proximal phalanges and distally with distal phalanges
- Fifth toe middle phalanx is often rudimentary or may fuse with distal phalanx
DISTAL PHALANGES
The distal phalanges form the tips of your toes and have unique features for supporting the nail bed.
Characteristics
What are the distal phalanges?
- Form the tips of your toes
- Head features a trochlear surface for articulation with the middle phalanges
- Distal phalanx of big toe articulates directly with proximal phalanx
Tuberosity
What is the tuberosity of the distal phalanx?
- Base includes a tuberosity
- Attachment site for the tendons of your toe muscles:
- Flexor digitorum longus
- Flexor hallucis longus (big toe)
- Expanded distal end supports the nail bed
- Five distal phalanges in each foot
BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. Henry G, Warren HL. Osteology. In: Anatomy of the Human Body. 20th ed. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger; 1918. p. 129–97.